In an effort to bridge the gap between the Auburn and the recently acquired Duesenberg lines, Errett Lobban Cord used the opportunity to finally build a car worthy of carrying his name on the radiator emblem. Having been impressed by the front-drive Miller racing cars, Cord adopted the layout for his new luxury road car, becoming America’s first front-drive production car in the process. Based on an all-new X-braced chassis, the new Cord L-29 boasted an extremely low ride height, of which chief stylist Al Leamy took full advantage to create the stunning, rakish coachwork. Unfortunately for Cord, the beautiful new car hit dealer showrooms just in time for the Wall Street crash of 1929, and in an instant the majority of his market was wiped out. Sales never really recovered, and production of the world’s first front-drive luxury car halted in 1932 after 5,010 units. Today, experts believe that approximately 300 L-29s exist in total, and they stand as some of the most stylish and desirable American cars of the Classic Era.

This 1930 L-29 wears the elegant factory-catalog five-passenger phaeton coachwork constructed by Limousine Body Company. This handsome example is the subject of a complete nut-and-bolt restoration finished to a high standard. It has since been certified as a Category One Original Car by the Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg (ACD) Club, who determined it retains its original coachwork, chassis, engine and significant components.

The two-tone paintwork is beautiful, with colors that suit the elegant lines. The interior is particularly impressive, with the tan leather showing in excellent order, as well as a taut-fitting canvas top. Accessories and fittings include dual side-mount spares with mirrors, chrome knock-off wire wheels and a body-color trunk. Accompanying the sale is a history file with the ACD Certification documents, restoration photos, correspondence, and reproduction factory service and parts manuals.

With its well-maintained restoration, this Cord is an excellent choice for the enthusiast seeking a lovely example to enjoy in CARavan tours or similar road events. The beautiful L-29 is a truly iconic pre-war American motorcar that represents the zenith of technology and style in the early 1930s, and today it is a must-have addition to any serious collection.